The Salem Museum has numerous events and exhibits planned for early 2024. The Museum invites everyone to attend. Located at 801 East Main Street, Salem, Virginia, the Museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and admission is free.
An American Flyer Winter Express
The Museum’s holiday model train display has been extended through Feb. 3. For the past seven years, Jim Burke has generously shared his childhood American Flyer model trains with delighted Museum visitors. The layout changes and grows every year. This year, the display expanded to three tracks, including a tiny N-scale train. The layout is full of surprises with unexpected creatures and characters playing in the snow. This will be the last year for the Burke family trains. Don’t miss this classic—and imaginative—American Flyer layout!
Hometown History: Salem’s Forgotten Beginnings
The Museum’s Main Gallery Feature Exhibit continues through March 23. Scattered throughout Salem are many locations that have either been replaced or forgotten after years of development. Hometown History uncovers these historic locations and their often-forgotten stories. Exhibit designer Alex Burke, Salem Museum’s Assistant Director, describes this exhibit as “a walking tour without the walking.” Salem residents will enjoy learning the history behind dozens of sites they pass by every day, and out-of-town visitors will discover the history that gives Salem its unique character.
Glenvar High School and Middle School Student Art Show
From April 9 through May 9, the student show features artwork, both 2D and 3D in a variety of media, by numerous talented Glenvar students.
Speaker Series:
The Salem Museum’s Thursday evening Speaker Series programs will be held on Zoom in January, February and March to avoid any inclement winter weather. Zoom links will be posted on the Salem Museum’s website: Salem Museum.org. Programs will return to in-person in Spring.
Geologic History of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Thursday, Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. on Zoom. The Blue Ridge Mountains are among the oldest mountains on planet Earth, with a fascinating story to tell. Dr. Jonathan Tso, Geology Department Chair and Associate Professor at Radford University, will describe the geologic processes that shaped the landscape we see and enjoy today,
“An American Noah”
Thursday, Feb. 8 at 7 p.m. on Zoom. B. Scott Crawford will share his insights into Gilbert Stuart’s iconic portrait of George Washington, which is known as the Lansdowne Portrait. Stuart incorporated imagery of Noah and the Flood into the portrait, imagery which provides insights into how Stuart presented Washington, as well as Washington’s vision for the nation. Crawford holds a Master’s in Colonial American History and currently serves as President and CEO of Virginia 811.
Patrick Henry of Red Hill
Thursday, March 14 at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Red Hill in Brookneal, Virginia is the Patrick Henry National Memorial. Patrick Henry’s last home and burial site, Red Hill preserves the legacy of Patrick Henry, regarded as the Voice of the American Revolution. Patrick Henry Jolly, Patrick Henry’s fifth great-grandson, will share Patrick Henry’s story and his contributions to America’s Independence.
-The Salem Times-Register
